Date Tasted: 3/2021

Balance in wine is my holy grail, and when it combined with a multi-layered complexity, I fall into ecstasy. Then the wine becomes a path to another dimension. The time stops, everything around is without meaning, and I stand at a point in time to admire the wine itself and try to extend as much as I can the time frame, knowing that when the last drop finishes, I will fall into depression.

Yes, all the above, seems metaphysical and maybe they are, but this is what happened when I tasted the Cabernet Sauvignon of Ridge Estate. And it happens every time I taste such a wine.

If someone finds it difficult to understand the term balance in the wine dictionary, he should try it.

Appearance: It has a ruby colour with purple hues.

Nose: The aromas are intense and delicate at the same time. It is multi-layered starting from perfectly ripe red-berries, continuous with secondary aromas of dried fruits and spices, all based on a thin layer of tobacco, leather and game. 

Palate: And here comes the magic! Balance beyond explanation, tasty tannins that mouthwatering the palate, fully integrated acidity and a so pleasant flavour combination were leaving their mark for a long time. 

I hope to have the opportunity to meet the personality behind this wine one day.

Drink or Hold: You must drink at least one bottle now and then buy a few more for the next decade. 

Food Pairing: In my opinion, such quality wines do not need food. But if you insist, it paired excellently with beef liver lying on top of a four-spice sauce. 

Points: 100

Name: Cabernet Sauvignon

Producer: Ridge Vineyards

Variety: 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc

Vintage: 2016

Region: AVA Santa Cruz Mountains, California, USA

Alcohol: 13,5%

Retail Price: 66€

Serving temperature: 16-18 C°

Drink it until 2033